Meet Octavio Rodriguez | Actor – Anythinger

We had the good fortune of connecting with Octavio Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Octavio, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
Honestly, ignoring 99.9% of people’s opinions on my goals, dreams, and aspirations. I’ve learned to keep everything I’m doing under wraps until I literally cannot hide what I’m working on any longer. It has helped me so much, both in my work and personal life. I’ve found that not everyone is happy to share in your successes or the road to. It’s better to hear an ‘I knew you can do it’ than a, “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” It has worked wonders on my motivation and energy levels.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Ummmmm, I think I’m most proud of my acting and what I’ve accomplished there. It was and is extremely difficult to break into the industry for anyone. I feel as though I’ve made great progress in a short amount of time and I’m very happy about it. It was difficult and I kind of just fell into acting, it was never something I ever thought about doing or even saw as a viable option for my life. I planned on following in my fathers footsteps and staying in construction (which I also still do) but I was scouted and one thing led to another and I LOVED the craft. It’s the only thing I truly love. Its truly not work for me. The challenges in retrospect weren’t terrible – They’re what you’d expect when pursuing just about any career. It’s just work and dedication. I think the main difference with pursuing something in the arts is the lack of immediate payment. I auditioned and studied in LA for 5 years before I landed a job with a livable paycheck. You really have to learn to survive. I moved to LA at 17 by myself on a whim and put college on hold, I figured it wasn’t going anywhere and acting IS the dream. I still haven’t told my dad I never finished my finals :0.

I think I want people to see me and see that anything is possible. Which is cliche, yeah but nothing sets me apart from anyone. I’m a normal guy from a normal town and I think everyone is just as capable to make their dreams a reality. I’m still working on mine, and I think I always will be. It’s difficult and terrifying making the decision to bet on yourself, but you only get one life and I don’t want it filled with regret.

I also try to show the real me on social media. I’m very vulgar and cuss like a sailor. I have no filter and I don’t plan on censoring myself. I think it’s necessary to combat some of the stuff happening on socials – and in life! I really can’t stand the thought of changing who you are to fit in. This is me, this is real, this is exactly where I’m supposed to be. LOL. Ily Demi

I also, run a clothing line and a construction company. I don’t even know where to start on those.

I started flipping homes at 18 and have been at it ever since. That has its own challenges. It’s difficult at times but I really do like it. I don’t love it, but it’s fun and I love to see the progress right away. It’s gratifying to see your work at the end of the day.

I think I’ve shared more here than I have with anyone else ever. I NEVER talk about work.

There are a few other things in the works but they’re still under wraps (:

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Blue bottle. NOLA w oat milk. It’s the best thing LA has to offer. No cap.

Food. Pizza. CHEESE. PIZZA. Really into pizza right now. I watch pizza reviews all day sometimes. If it’s LA – Village Pizzeria. Drinks, I don’t know I’m more of a food guy than a drinks guy. Tsujita ramen annex. INSANE. Best ramen in LA.

Other than food – probably hiking and spending time on the beach. I love hermosa. It’s the best closer beach.

ALSO, the rooftop cinema club – SUPER COOL

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shout out my dad. He has been nothing short of a role model and my greatest inspiration. I’ve seen him during his greatest successes and biggest struggles in his entrepreneurial life. Seeing him manage his way out of some very low lows and persevere has given me the confidence to try literally anything I can understand.

Instagram: @octavio